Sami Zayn addresses the criticism related to his recent win (Image via WWE)
WWE SmackDown delivered a chaotic night of title drama, Money in the Bank qualifying matches and major confrontations on September 18, 2026. Trick Williams therefore qualified for Money in the Bank. Bakusai won by disqualification, but the MFTs and Haku continued the attack after the decision.
Sami Zayn entered the show as the Undisputed WWE Champion after his shocking win over CM Punk last week. He was then forced into another title defense against longtime rival Kevin Owens . The show also featured Randy Orton , Rey Fenix, Trick Williams, Jade Cargill, Alexa Bliss and Jacy Jayne in important qualifying matches. Sami Zayn opened the show with Nick Aldis and celebrated becoming Undisputed WWE Champion. Johnny Gargano then demanded a title opportunity. Kevin Owens also made his case after his involvement in last week’s title match. Owens reminded Aldis about his history with Zayn and argued that he deserved a shot. Aldis eventually made the main event official. Owens dominated large portions of the early action. He used chops, a senton and a cannonball against the champion. CM Punk later appeared and attacked Owens with the WWE Championship. Zayn hit Punk with a Helluva Kick and covered Owens. Zayn eventually hit another Helluva Kick to secure the victory. He retained the championship. Punk then attacked Zayn and Owens with GTS finishes after the match. Randy Orton, Trick Williams and Rey Fenix battled for a spot in the men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Orton controlled parts of the match with power moves. Fenix also produced several high-flying moments, including a sunset powerbomb and a frog splash attempt. The match ended after Fenix hit Orton with a superkick and went for a frog splash. Orton countered with an RKO. However, Williams caught Fenix with a Trick Shot and pinned him. He joins Bron Breakker and Je’Von Evans in the men’s ladder match. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Jacy Jayne faced Jade Cargill and Alexa Bliss in the women’s qualifying match. Cargill used her strength to control both opponents at different points. Bliss also came close to winning after hitting Sister Abigail on Jayne. Cargill later hit Bliss with Jaded. Jayne broke up the cover, removed Cargill from the ring and pinned Bliss. Jayne earned her place in the women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. WWE Tag Team Champions Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga faced Shinsuke Nakamura and Kyoki in a non-title match. Bakusai produced several fast attacks against the MFTs. Kyoki also hit a dive that took down both champions. The match ended when Haku interfered. He attacked Nakamura with his walking stick while the referee called for the bell. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.
The match began with Owens attacking Zayn before the opening momentum could settle. Owens appeared to kick out before the three-count, creating confusion at ringside.